Lou Conter, at the age of 20, served as a quartermaster on a battleship during the events of December 7, 1941, when he played a vital role in rescuing sailors following the surprise attack on the U.S. fleet in the Pacific.
Lou Conter
This attack, which thrust the United States into World War II, inflicted significant damage on the fleet stationed at the naval base in Hawaii, resulting in the tragic loss of over 2,000 American lives. Among the casualties, more than 1,100 individuals perished aboard the USS Arizona, with many of their remains resting within the wreckage of the ship.
Aileen Utterdyke, President and CEO of Pacific Historic Parks, expressed profound sorrow at the passing of Lou Conter, emphasizing his embodiment of the values of the Greatest Generation. She hailed his courage, achievements, and sacrifices, which played a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation from tyranny. Throughout his life, Conter tirelessly advocated for the remembrance of Pearl Harbor, urging schools, parents, and ordinary Americans to honor the memory of those lost.
Following his service on the battleship, Lou Conter transitioned to become a pilot during World War II, facing adversity when his plane was shot down twice, including a harrowing incident off the coast of New Guinea where he and his crew braved shark-infested waters after an emergency landing.
In addition to his remarkable wartime experiences, Conter made significant contributions as an intelligence officer, undertaking combat missions in Korea and establishing a crucial survival training program within the Navy.
His distinguished career also saw him serve as a military advisor to Presidents Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, and Lyndon B. Johnson, leaving an indelible mark on American history and inspiring generations to come.
