William Forbes-Sempill, 19th Lord Sempill

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William Francis Forbes-Sempill, 19th Baron Sempill, 10th Baronet Forbes of Craigievar (1893 - December 1965) was a British engineer. Before succeeding his father to the titles of Lord Sempill and Baronet Forbes in 1934, he was known by his courtesy title, Master of Sempill.

Forbes-Sempill was involved in the aircraft industry from its early days, both as a flyer and as an engineer. During World War I, he enrolled in the Royal Flying Corps; by the end of the war he held the rank of colonel. He became a test pilot[1] and transferred into the Royal Naval Air Service. In 1921 he led a British deputation to Japan, to assist the Japanese navy in setting up its new air base. During World War II he served in the Fleet Air Arm.

Lord Sempill was a leading figure in the Royal Aeronautical Society, of which he was president, and advised overseas governments, including that of Australia, on the creation of their air forces. In 1956 the Swedish government awarded him The Order of the Polar Star. At various times he was president of the British Gliding Association and of the Institute of Advanced Motorists.

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  1. ^ Peter C Smith, Fist from the Sky