George Balch

George Beall Balch (8 January 1821 – 18 April 1908) was an admiral in the United States Navy who served during the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War.

Born in Shelbyville, Tennessee, Balch was appointed Acting Midshipman in 1837 and was assigned to the sloop "Cyane," of the Pacific squadron. He served in the Mexican War and was executive officer of "Plymouth" during Commodore Matthew C. Perry's expedition to Japan. During the Civil War he took part in many engagements. Rear Admiral Balch served as superintendent of the Naval Academy (1879-81) and for a short period commanded the Pacific Fleet.

He retired in January 1883 and died at Raleigh, North Carolina.

Namesake

Two ships, USS "Balch", have been named for him.

ee also

*List of Superintendents of the United States Naval Academy

References

:DANFS