Battalion commander of the 95th Airborne Brigade. Born on January 5, 1984 in Radomyshl, Zhytomyr region.

On May 26, 2014 Major Gerasymenko led a military unit that eliminated Russia-backed militants and their vehicles during the defense of a Ukrainian position. His professionalism and exemplary service were at the core of quick and successful takeover and defense of the Karachun mountain (167.6 m), a strategically important site, which enabled Ukrainian Armed Forces to hold militant forces based near Sloviansk in check.

On July 27, 2014 Major Gerasymenko’s unit destroyed several of the militants’ positions after a heavy fire exchange. As a result of these efforts, Ukrainian forces restored control over the area close to Stepanivka and Petrovske villages in Donetsk region. The new position also played a key role in countering the plans for further offensive by the militants. On July 29, 2014 Major Gerasymenko led an assault group and seized the strategically important Savur-Mohyla hill.

During the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO), the officer was twice wounded but remained faithful to the military oath and his sense of duty, staying as the battalion commander and accomplishing combat missions.

Major Gerasymenko was awarded the title Hero of Ukraine with the Golden Star Order for exceptional personal courage and heroism demonstrated while defending Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity by the Decree No. 71/2015 of the President of Ukraine dated February 12, 2015 “On conferring the title of the Hero of Ukraine on Ihor Gerasymenko.”