The 6th New Jersey Infantry Regiment was recruited in the counties of Burlington, Camden, Mercer, Hudson and Hunterdon, and was mustered into Federal service in August 1861.

In September 1864, the original enlistments of the unit expired by law, and the men who served a full three years were mustered out of service.

Major John P. Van Leer would be promoted to Lieutenant Colonel to replace Stroud, and was killed in action at the Battle of Williamsburg (briefly leading the regiment before his demise).

While Chaplain Moore continued to serve with the 8th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry after September 1864, Surgeon Wiley chose to not re-enlist after three full years, and was honorably mustered out.

Sergeant Richard Conner of Company F was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery while rescuing the flag of his regiment during the Second Battle of Bull Run in August 1862.