Harry was born on 31 January 1907 in Malden, Massachusetts, USA to Latvian born parents Joseph and Bessie nee Blackloff. He was married to Ruth and worked as a commercial pilot and a flying instructor, living in New York before enlisting.

Harry was ferrying Beaufighter T3045 which stalled on approach and crashed at Norton crossroads between Shrewsbury and Wellington.

Harry was cremated at Perry Barr Crematorium and his remains were repatriated to the USA.