Denys O. Herasymov (Birch)

Denys Herasymov (call sign Birch), a serviceman, was killed on September 20, 2023, in the Serebrianske forestry, near the city of Kreminna, Luhansk region. During the performance of a combat mission, he sustained injuries incompatible with life as a result of a mortar attack. A month before this, the warrior had turned 20 years old. Denys was born in Kharkiv. He first studied at the local Lyceum No. 107, and then became a student at the National Aerospace University named after M.E. Zhukovsky "Kharkiv Aviation Institute". He was passionate about martial arts. He was a representative of the ultras of the football club "Metalist" (Kharkiv). With the start of the full-scale war, he defended his hometown, helping wherever needed. Then he joined the ranks of the 12th Special Purpose Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine "Azov", taking the position of a grenade launcher. "He was modest, kind, and very determined. A sensitive son, a patriot of his country. From a teenager, he grew up imperceptibly into a true and courageous warrior. We love, are proud, and deeply mourn. It is a great happiness to have such a son!" - wrote his mother, Oksana Herasymova. Denys was buried in the Alley of Glory of Kharkiv Cemetery No. 18. The defender is survived by his parents, an older brother, and a younger sister.