Derevyanko was born on November 14, 1904, in the village of Kosenivka, Umansky Uyezd, Kiev Governorate, Russian Empire (now Ukraine).

In pursuit of further education, Derevyanko joined the Eastern Faculty of the Military Academy of the Red Army in 1933, specializing in English and Japanese studies.

Graduating in 1936, he transitioned to the Intelligence Department of the Red Army, where he undertook crucial missions, including a significant involvement in the Spanish Civil War in 1937.

During the Soviet-Finnish War of 1939-1940, Derevyanko served as the chief of staff of the Separate Special Ski Brigade, a reconnaissance and sabotage unit composed mainly of students from the Leningrad Institute of Physical Education.

His pre-war activities culminated in a special assignment in East Prussia from January to March 1941, further showcasing his versatility and commitment to service.

Following the surrender, Derevyanko undertook several visits to the atomic-bombed cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, compiling detailed reports and photographic evidence of the devastation.