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Peoria couple on wave to preserve son’s legacy

Federal bill seeks to improve mental health in military

A Peoria couple is riding a wave of support in preserving their son’s legacy to improve mental health within the U.S. Armed Forces.

The League of United Latin American Citizens presented the organization’s highest recognition — the LULAC Presidential Medal — to Peoria residents Patrick and Teri Caserta, parents of a 21-year-old U.S. Navy aircrew mate who took his life at Naval Station Norfolk in 2018.

The Casertas are devoting their lives to the passage of the Brandon Act, which is working its way through Congress and will allow service members who experience mental health issues to confidentially self-report and receive access to a mental health evaluation and appropriate care.

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