Ivan P. Herashchenko (Hera)

Sergeant Major Ivan Gerashchenko (call sign Gera) was killed on April 17, 2024, during a missile attack on Chernihiv. In May, the defender would have turned 31 years old. Ivan was born and lived in Chernihiv. He graduated from school No. 13 and the Chernihiv Vocational Lyceum of the Woodworking Industry. Then he enrolled in the institute, but after half a year, he realized that it was not for him and went to serve in the military. In 2013-2015, he served in military unit 3027. He participated in the Revolution of Dignity and later defended the country in the ATO in the Donetsk region. In 2016-2021, he served under contract in the National Guard of Ukraine. He was fond of sports, playing volleyball and boxing. During the full-scale war, in the summer of 2022, Ivan returned to the military. He served in the 5th separate communications regiment of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He held the position of station chief. "My husband had a simple but very steadfast character. His blue eyes never held condemnation, only understanding and support. Always faithful to his words and his choice. He did everything with his family and only for his family. Beloved without limits. Father-universe. Brother not by blood. Friend-support," wrote the wife of the fallen soldier. The military was buried in the "Yatsevo" cemetery in his hometown. At home, Ivan was awaited by his wife Anastasia and daughter Kira.