Following his separation from active duty, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Reserve and enrolled at the University of Georgia.

While First Lieutenant Rollings was leading a long-range reconnaissance patrol deep into enemy-controlled territory in Quang Nam Province, the point man spotted twelve enemy soldiers in almost hidden emplacements and immediately fired at the hostile troops.

Although small-arms fire tore his clothing and ripped his gas mask, and fragments of an enemy grenade struck him in the face and legs, First Lieutenant Rollings continued to deliver suppressive fire, accounting for several enemy casualties and forcing the remainder of the hostile troops to withdraw.

Despite the pain of his injuries, First Lieutenant Rollings continued to expose himself to fire from the retreating enemy while he skillfully directed air strikes upon all possible routes of egress.

Through his courage, dynamic leadership, and unfaltering devotion to duty, he contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his patrol's mission and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

In 1982, he returned to Marine Corps Base Quantico to serve as the Commanding Officer, Headquarters and Service Battalion, The Basic School, and later, as the Tactics Group Chief.

From 1984 to 1985, Rollings attended the National War College, in Washington, D.C., and upon graduation returned to the 2d Marine Division, where he served as the Assistant Chief of Staff, G-3, Operations Officer.