The 5th Rhode Island Heavy Artillery Regiment was organized from the 5th Rhode Island Infantry Regiment at New Berne, North Carolina on May 27, 1863, and commanded by Colonel Henry T. Sisson.

The regiment was attached to Defenses of New Berne, Department of Virginia and North Carolina until January 1865 when it was reassigned to the Sub-District of New Berne, Department of North Carolina until June 1865.

[1] The regiment served by detachments in garrison in forts and defenses of New Berne, Washington and Roanoke Island, North Carolina.

[1] The regiment engaged in operations around New Berne against forces commanded by Major General William H.C. Whiting, CSA from January 18-February 10, 1864.

Elements of the regiment engaged in a skirmish on the south side of the Trent River on May 5, 1864.