The most significant operation in which the 3rd Massachusetts was engaged was the Goldsboro Expedition in December 1862. Maj. Gen. Foster marched virtually all of his available forces from New Bern, numbering approximately 12,000, to disrupt the Confederate supply line to Virginia along the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad by destroying the Goldsboro Bridge (roughly 60 miles from New Bern). This expedition was executed in coordination with Maj. Gen. Ambrose Burnside's assault on Fredericksburg, Virginia. During this expedition, the regiment took part in the Battles of Kinston, White Hall and Goldsboro Bridge. The 3rd Massachusetts was engaged in only minor skirmishing during this expedition. On December 17, Foster's force reached Goldsboro and destroyed the railroad bridge. The 3rd Massachusetts destroyed approximately three miles of the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad outside of Goldsboro after which they were engaged with the enemy while part of a rear guard action. The regiment reached New Bern on December 21 having suffered casualties of six wounded.