Hermann Schlichting was a prominent German engineer and physicist, best known for his contributions to the field of fluid mechanics. Born in 1906, he made significant advancements in understanding boundary layer theory, which is crucial for aerodynamics and hydrodynamics. His work has influenced various applications, including aircraft design and the study of turbulence. In addition to his research, Schlichting authored the widely used textbook "Boundary Layer Theory," which has educated generations of engineers and scientists. He held academic positions at several institutions, including the University of Göttingen, and was recognized for his contributions to the field until his passing in 2002.