[1][2] Born and raised in Helena, Montana, Connor attended the United States Military Academy.

During World War II, he helped to plan and then participated in assault landings in North Africa, in Sicily, at Anzio and in Southern France.

Promoted to colonel in 1948, Connor was given command of the 503rd Airborne Infantry Regiment in January 1951 at Fort Campbell (renamed in 1950).

[6] After serving five years as a lieutenant general, Connor retired from active duty on 2 June 1972.

[9] Connor married Betty Schofield Stewart (16 October 1918 – 28 July 2005) on 1 June 1938 at the Cathedral of Saint Helena.