For its gallantry at the furious engagement of Bethesda Church on 03 June 1864, Gen. Griffin, commanding the brigade, issued the following congratulatory order: "It also gives me pleasure to add my evidence to the well-known fact that the 31st Maine has made for itself a most brilliant record, and won for itself imperishable renown".

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The casualties of the regiment were enormous, as it was so constantly engaged. It lost at Spottsylvania Court House 12 killed, 75 wounded and 108 missing. In the great battle of 30 July 1864, when the mine was exploded at Petersburg, the regiment was assigned an important position and was the first to enter the enemy's works. Its losses were 10 killed, 31 wounded and 47 captured. Again at the battle of Poplar Spring Church the regiment distinguished itself, and was the last to fall back when the enemy turned the right of the brigade and compelled a retreat. It lost here 5 killed, 15 wounded and 16 captured.