High Quality Content by WIKIPEDIA articles! Admiral Sir John Balchen (2 February 1670 – 4 October 1744) (sometimes written as Sir John Balchin) was an officer of the British Royal Navy with a long and distinguished career during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. In the course of his service at sea, Balchen saw action in numerous battles against the French and Spanish navies across 60 years and three separate wars. He was twice captured by the French in action, both times being exonerated and commended for the defence of his ships against overwhelming odds.