Raised in the small agricultural community of Temu in the Italian Alps, Mario Cervelli grew up a typical Italian child of that era-going to school, helping with farming, playing marbles, and joining the fascist youth organization. When tensions arose in Europe in the early 1930's with Benito Mussolini in power in Italy, Mario's father, an American citizen, fled Italy before he could be drafted into the Italian army. Leaving his family behind, he made his way to Helena, Montana, where he worked on a ranch. Just ten years old when he arrived in the United States, Mario enjoyed life in his new home-hunting, helping around the ranch, golfing, caddying, and killing gophers. When his father became ill and died, Mario, at fifteen years of age, left school to help support his family. Mario later returned to Italy and his hometown as a member of the United States Army. Rising Above recounts the story of the first twenty-three years of the life of Mario Cervelli, a story of commitment to one's family, perseverance, overcoming obstacles, and protecting one's integrity.