Louis Tanzer was born on December 25, 1920. Although eligible for deferment during World War II, he chose to volunteer for the U.S. Marine Corps. He and his two closest friends each enlisted in a different branch of the military, motivated by a shared commitment to serve.
Louis became a Staff Sergeant in the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing and was stationed in the central Pacific, which included the Ellice Islands (Funafuti) and the Marshall Islands (Majuro Atoll). He also served aboard the USS Altamaha, a Liberty Ship that supported crucial operations throughout the Pacific Theater.
His service exemplified a spirit of selflessness and quiet courage that characterized the generation.