From the Depths of Pearl Harbor to the Skies of Valor: The Epic Journey of Lou Conter, USS Arizona Survivor turned Naval Aviator

Now 102-year-old Louis Conter had his blazing chapter of life as a 20-year-old Quartermaster stationed at the stern of the USS Arizona battleship. The fire aboard Arizona molded him into the warrior he is and gave him the indomitable spirit of a survivor and a warrior. He didn’t only fight against the imperial Japanese attack he also fought the battle against time and to this day he is the last man standing to share his spirit and stories of Pearl Harbor.

Lou Conter was born in Ojibwa, Wisconsin on September 13, 1921. He had one older and one younger sister, and his family moved around quite a bit during his childhood. They lived in Wisconsin, New Mexico, Colorado, and Kansas before settling back in Denver in 1930.

Conter finished school and then began working at the same company as his father. It seems like he had a pretty typical Midwestern upbringing, but it’s also clear that he was a hard worker and a good son.

*The attack and his rebirth*

Conter was on watch on the Arizona’s quarterdeck when the Japanese attack began. He saw the Japanese planes coming and heard the bombs whistling overhead. The Japanese bomb that struck the Arizona was a 1,760-pound armor-piercing bomb. It struck the ship’s starboard side, just forward of the mainmast. The bomb penetrated five decks before exploding in the ship’s ammunition magazines.

The explosion was devastating. It blew a hole in the side of the ship that was 100 feet wide and 20 feet high. The explosion also caused the ship to list heavily to port.

Conter was knocked off his feet by the explosion. He was dazed and confused, but he managed to swim to safety. Despite being knocked off his feet by the explosion, Conter quickly regained his composure and joined the rescue efforts. He helped put out fires, guided injured shipmates to safety, and even restrained some who were panicking and trying to jump overboard into the burning oil.

Following the events of Pearl Harbor, Conter continued to serve in the Navy throughout World War II. He participated in various naval campaigns and battles, contributing to the war effort. His dedication and service were commendable, and he played a role in the overall victory of the Allied forces.

After the war, Conter continued his career in the Navy, serving on different ships and advancing through the ranks. He eventually retired from the Navy with the rank of lieutenant. In his post-military life, Conter remained active in veteran and survivor activities, sharing his experiences and ensuring that the memory of Pearl Harbor lived on. Lou Conter’s journey from the USS Arizona to becoming a naval pilot is a fascinating chronicle of determination, chance encounters, and a commitment to service. Here’s a chronological breakdown of key events:

1. September 1941 (Age 20)
Lou Conter is stationed on the USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor.
He expresses interest in flight school to a friend, but doubts they would be accepted due to being “right-arm rates” (sailors with right-arm patches).

2. November 1, 1941
Conter and his friend receive orders to report to Navy flight school in Pensacola, Florida.

3. December 7, 1941 (Attack on Pearl Harbor)
The USS Arizona is attacked by Japanese forces.
Conter survives the attack but loses his orders when the battleship sinks.
He awaits new instructions but hears nothing.

4. Early January 1942
Conter meets Admiral Calhoun in Honolulu and explains the lost orders.
Three days later, he and his friend receive new orders to report to Navy flight school.

5. November 1942
Conter completes Navy flight school in Pensacola, Florida.
He earns his wings and becomes a naval aviator.

6. Assigned to Black Cats Squadron
Conter joins the Black Cats, a squadron of long-range patrol bombers painted black for night missions.
The squadron conducts surveillance, search and rescue, and sea patrol missions.

7. Night Air Raids in the South Pacific
Conter participates in night air raids on Japanese ships in the South Pacific.
The Black Cats prove valuable for nighttime assaults and nuisance raids on Japanese submarines.

8. 1943 (Specific Date Not Provided)
Conter’s plane is hit during a mission, and the crew is forced to abandon it.
They survive and are rescued, showcasing Conter’s leadership and survival skills.

9. Late 1943:
Conter participates in a mission to rescue over 200 coast watchers in New Guinea, a significant and top-secret operation.

10. Korean War
Conter flies 29 missions in Korea but is transferred to Washington, D.C., due to his vulnerability in Naval intelligence if captured.

11. Post-Korean War
Conter was promoted to Lieutenant Commander in February 1954.
He engages in survival training as part of the SERE program (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape).

12. 1965
Conter returned to Pearl Harbor to write training materials for troops heading to Vietnam.

Throughout his military career, Lou Conter demonstrates resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to serving his country. His transition from the USS Arizona to naval aviation and subsequent roles reflects the diverse experiences of individuals during World War II and the Korean War.

Significance and irreplaceable role of Louis Anthonny Conter: lived a life worthwhile

Lou Conter’s life story is a remarkable testament to resilience, bravery, and service to his country. From his early days in Wisconsin to his pivotal role on the USS Arizona during the attack on Pearl Harbor, Conter’s journey is filled with moments of heroism and dedication.

His decision to enlist in the Navy at a young age and subsequent service on the USS Arizona positioned him at the center of one of the most significant events in American history. Conter’s survival of the

devastating attack, his efforts to rescue fellow sailors, and his continued service through World War II and the Korean War showcase his enduring spirit and commitment to duty.

The list of military medals and recognitions he received throughout his career is a testament to his courage and contributions. The Purple Heart, Distinguished Flying Cross, and other awards highlight his bravery and sacrifice during combat missions in World War II and Korea.

In his post-military life, Conter continued to contribute to the well-being of veterans and shared his experiences as a motivational speaker. The numerous honorary degrees and community awards, along with his induction into the California Hall of Fame, reflect the impact he had on his community and the nation.

Becoming the last living survivor of the USS Arizona is a poignant milestone in Conter’s life, marking him as a living link to a pivotal moment in history. His decision not to attend the Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ceremony in Hawaii due to health conditions underscores the passage of time and the challenges faced by those who witnessed and survived such significant historical events.

As Lou Conter continues to live in California, surrounded by family and the memories of his extraordinary life, his story serves as a source of inspiration and a reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who served in the military.