Major L.C. Bourchier was born at Hadley, Hertfordshire in March 1815 and purchased an Ensigncy in the 17th Foot in April 1833, aged 18 years. Subsequently advanced by purchase to Lieutenant in February 1836 and to Captain in July 1838, he was engaged in the Afghanistan operations of 1839, being present at the storming and capture of Ghuznee and Kelat. Wounded by 'a matchlock ball in the right arm' on the latter occasion, Bourchier was awarded a Gratuity of one years pay. Advanced to Major in December 1851, he transferred in the following year to the 69th Foot and in November 1854 to the 75th Foot.