View source for 3rd Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Regiment

The 3rd Rhode Island Heavy Artillery was a distinguished unit in the Union Army during the American Civil War, formed in August 1862 with twelve companies and mustered into federal service by November of the same year. Comprising approximately 1,400 men, the regiment was instrumental in several significant campaigns and battles.

**Key Campaigns and Battles:**

Notable actions included the attack on Morris Island (July 10, 1864) and assaults on Fort Wagner on July 11 and 18, 1864, as well as sieges around James Island and Fort Johnson in 1864.

**Commanding Officers:**

**Casualties:**
The regiment suffered a total of 135 casualties, with 2 officers and 39 enlisted men killed or mortally wounded, and 4 officers and 90 enlisted men dying from disease. This highlights the significant impact of diseases on Civil War units.

**Sources:**
Historical works such as "History of Rhode Island Civil War Regiments" by Christopher Cox and Frederic Denison's "Shot and Shell" provide foundational insights into the regiment's history.

In summary, the 3rd Rhode Island Heavy Artillery was integral to key Union victories, demonstrating their significance in both offensive and defensive operations during the Civil War.