Henry Tizard played a pivotal role in British military policy during World War II. He advised the government on a wide variety of military applications of scientific and technological innovations, including radar and the jet propulsion engine. His scientific education and military experience allowed him to communicate effectively with people in both areas.

Sir Henry Thomas Tizard was born on August 23, 1885, in Gillingham, Kent, to Captain Thomas Henry and Mary Elizabeth (Churchward) Tizard. The family was financially solid but not wealthy. As a navy hydrographer, his father had participated in extensive naval survey work around the world. He encouraged his son's early interest in science. The young Tizard looked forward to a naval career, but just before he was to enter naval school at 13, his left eye was damaged when a fly flew into it. His sight was impaired enough to bar him from naval service. He then...