Tape 1, Side 1 through Tape 3, Side 1. In the first interview session, conducted on January 6, 1995, Fujita discusses his family background, and speaks at length about the lives of his parents, Haru Fujita and Seijiro Kuribayashi Fujita. He talks about his early life as a second-generation Japanese American in Milwaukie, Oregon, before World War II, including life on the family farm in Milwaukie, his relationship with his family, and his recreational activities. He shares his memories of the Depression, talks about his school experiences, and describes a trip to Japan in 1938. He talks about the diversity of the Japanese American community in the Portland area, and about the community’s businesses and activities. He discusses the origins of his name. He closes the session by talking about the concept of bringing shame to one’s family in Japanese culture.