John was born in Edgerton, Kansas, on the 2nd of January, 1896, and after high school, he attended Kansas State University. John joined the US Navy on the 26th of May, 1917 through an officer training program and would later be attached to the US Marines in France during World War 1. He was wounded during the Battle of Belleau Wood, where he worked for sixteen hours aiding the wounded and for these actions he received the Distinguished Service Cross from the Army. One month later, John's actions earned him the Medal of Honor. The citation reads:

For gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty, with the 6th Regiment, U.S. Marines, in action at Vierzy, on 19 July 1918. Balch unhesitatingly and fearlessly exposed himself to terrific machinegun and high-explosive fire to succor the wounded as they fell in the attack, leaving his dressing station voluntarily and keeping up the work all day and late into the night unceasingly for 16 hours. Also in the action at Somme-Py on 5 October 1918, he exhibited exceptional bravery in establishing an advanced dressing station under heavy shellfire.

John also received three Silver Stars for his actions on the 6th of June and 5th of October, two of which were from the Army. His time in service ended on the 19th of August, 1919 and three years after receiving his Medal of Honor, John rejoined the Navy in September of 1942. He spent time in Australia and the Philippines, as well as various locations within the States. His service ended on the 1st of June, 1950 after 10 years and at the rank of Commander. John Henry Balch died on the 15th of October, 1980 at the age of 84. He is buried in Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California: Section 2, Grave 1925.