Balch was an educated man, but decided upon a career in business instead of attending college, first working in his father's drug store at the age of 14 as a clerk, and eventually becoming a partner.

At the outbreak of the war, he was appointed to the rank of major in the First Rhode Island Detached Militia, a "90-day" regiment on May 2, 1861.

Balch commanded the 1st Rhode Island at the First Battle of Bull Run on July 21, 1861.

Balch was recognized for "coolness, steadiness, and courage under fire" when his appointment by brevet (an honorary promotion) to the grade of brevet brigadier general of volunteers, to rank from March 13, 1865, was confirmed by the United States Senate on July 25, 1868.

[2] After the war, Balch was a prominent member of Rhode Island society, and had six daughters and a son.