Two Navy veterans, Jim Serger and Cory Hardy, reunited after 30 years to cycle from San Diego to New York City in tribute to the victims and first responders of the 11 September attacks. Their demanding coast-to-coast journey was intended to honour service, sacrifice and national unity ahead of the attacks’ 25th anniversary.

Serger, 55, from Cincinnati, and Hardy, 51, from Ennis, Montana, began the ride on 14 July after serving together overseas decades earlier. Along the route, they planned to visit fire stations and raise awareness for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which supports families of fallen first responders and military personnel.