Harry Gayle Brock was born on March 14, 1896, in Owen County, Kentucky, to Pascal Thomas “Pack” and Joanna L. Brock. He grew up in New Liberty, Owen County, alongside his two sisters. The 1910 Census records indicate that the Brock family resided in New Liberty during his early years.

Brock enlisted in the Kentucky Army National Guard in March 1917, joining Company L of the First Kentucky Infantry Regiment.  Following the United States’ entry into World War I, the First Kentucky Infantry underwent reorganization and was integrated into the national army structure. As part of this process, Brock was assigned to Company I of the 159th Infantry Regiment, within the 80th Brigade of the 40th Division. The 40th Division, known as the “Sunshine Division,” was constituted on September 16, 1917, at Camp Kearny, California, drawing units primarily from the National Guard of several western states. 

Tragically, Private Brock’s service was cut short when he died on September 2, 1917, at Camp Taylor in Louisville, Jefferson County, Kentucky, due to an intestinal obstruction. His death was notably the first to occur at the hospital in Camp Taylor.  Following his passing, his remains were returned to his hometown, where funeral services were held at his father’s residence.  He was laid to rest in the New Liberty IOOF Cemetery in Owen County. Contemporary accounts remembered Brock as a “splendid young man” and a “brave, fearless and loyal” soldier, reflecting the community’s deep respect and mourning for his untimely loss.