Turner was promoted to captain in command of Company G of the 2nd Rhode Island on April 4, 1863. Shortly after assuming command of G Company, he was wounded on May 3 at the Battle of Salem Church, Virginia during the Chancellorsville Campaign. On May 11, he sent to his brother Dr. Henry E. Turner (1816-1897), who was serving as a contract surgeon at Fort Adams, a short telegram - "Wounded in front of bladder. Pocket book saved my life. Not serious."