Tape 1, Side 1, through Tape 2, Side 1. In the first interview session, conducted on February 27, 1999, Rosolie discusses his family background and early life in Brooklyn and Queens, New York, including his parents' jobs, his experience growing up in subsidized housing, and his early education in Catholic schools. He also talks about discrimination his mother experienced due to her Italian ancestry. He discusses serving in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1967 to 1970, during the Vietnam War, talks about how the death of his older brother in combat affected his family, and speaks about how his experience influenced his views on the war. He shares his reasons for moving across the country to attend Mount Angel College in Oregon, and talks about completing his college education at Portland State University.