2004- 2025
Benjamin Aser (Nemo)
The Nemo Memorial Run is a global virtual event dedicated to the memory of Benjamin Aser (Nemo) and all the brave heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice for Ukraine’s freedom.
2004- 2025
Benjamin Aser, a Jewish soldier with Canadian-Hungarian roots, arrived in Ukraine from Hungary as a volunteer to help defend the country against Russian aggression. Through his service and ultimate sacrifice, Nemo became a symbol of international solidarity and individual bravery.
Military Service and Dedication
After his time with the Revansh Tactical Group, Nemo served within the ranks of the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade. He was an active participant in both defensive and offensive operations across the Donetsk and Kharkiv regions, where his unit worked tirelessly to halt intense enemy advances.
Serving as both a rifleman and a combat medic, Nemo demonstrated exceptional courage under the most grueling conditions. He evacuated wounded comrades from the direct line of fire on countless occasions and provided vital logistical support to his unit during battles. According to the descriptions provided by his brothers-in-arms, Nemo was a remarkably humble young man who never complained, regardless of the hardships they faced in the first line.
The Final Act of Heroism
On May 24, 2025, during an assault mission in the Kharkiv region, Nemo voluntarily took the place of a fellow soldier in the first line. During the mission, the unit came under heavy mortar fire and drone attacks involving chemical agents.
Based on the accounts of his comrades, Nemo held his position until the very end. He continued to fight while simultaneously providing medical aid and protection to a wounded foreign fellow soldier. Through his self-sacrifice, Nemo saved the lives of several soldiers and played a decisive role in holding the defensive line. He fell in action during this fierce battle.
The sacrifice of Benjamin Aser (Nemo) has been recognized with several prestigious military and state decorations:
Order "For Courage"
(Ukrainian State Decoration)
In April 2026, the Ukrainian state posthumously awarded this order to Nemo for his extraordinary steadfastness on the battlefield.
Ukrainian-Canadian Medal of Sacrifice
Awarded to him posthumously by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) and the Ukrainian War Veterans Association of Canada (UWVA). The medal was presented to his father in Toronto on February 25, 2026. This distinction is reserved for those who lose their lives while serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The Iron Cross
(Ukrainian Ministry of Defense Honor)
This high-ranking military honor was awarded to him posthumously by the Minister of Defense of Ukraine. The award was presented to his father in Kyiv immediately following Benjamin’s funeral.
National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War
(Kyiv War Museum)
Nemo’s personal belongings and life story have been inducted into the permanent collection of this museum complex in Kyiv. As part of the exhibition “Freedom Knows No Borders” which honors the heroes of the current Russo-Ukrainian War, his legacy serves as a tribute to all foreign volunteers who have fallen in the defense of Ukraine.
Nemo Memorial Run – Run for the Heroes
The Nemo Memorial Run is a global virtual event dedicated to the memory of Benjamin Aser (Nemo) and all the brave heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice for Ukraine’s freedom.
Benjamin (Nemo) was a volunteer soldier, infantryman, and combat medic who fell in action on May 24, 2025, shortly after his 21st birthday. During his service, two military units considered him their own: Nemo first joined the Revansh tactical group, and later the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade, ultimately falling in action while serving in this unit. While saving a wounded comrade and despite receiving orders to retreat, he remained at his position to cover his team’s withdrawal, saving many lives. This run is not just about the kilometers covered; it is about ensuring that the legacy of those who stood for liberty is never forgotten.
How it Works: Since this is a Virtual Event, you can participate from anywhere in the world. Whether you run on a trail or through your local streets, every kilometer is a tribute to courage and selflessness.
The Memorial Period: The event spans the significant timeframe between May 24, 2026 (The anniversary of Nemo’s passing) and November 27, 2026 (The anniversary of his burial).
Participation: You can complete your chosen distance at any time during this period.
Register
Join us in honoring Benjamin Aser’s legacy and supporting a meaningful cause through community, remembrance, and action. Whether you run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines, your participation helps keep Nemo’s memory alive.
Store
Show your support with official Nemo Memorial Run merchandise. Every purchase helps fund community initiatives and honors the legacy of Benjamin Aser, while spreading awareness and support for our cause.
Donate
Your donation directly supports programs, events, and initiatives created in memory of Benjamin Aser (Nemo). Every contribution helps make a lasting impact and keeps his spirit alive within the community.
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