Fairfield University alumnus Patrick McGarry will embark on a more than 3,000-mile bicycle ride across the United States next month to honor his sister, who was killed in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, and to raise money for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

McGarry, a member of the Class of 1986, will begin the 44-day journey March 8 in San Diego, California, and finish in St. Augustine, Florida. The coast-to-coast ride will support the foundation’s mission of assisting first responders and military families.

McGarry’s sister, Katie McGarry, was among those killed at the World Trade Center. She was the youngest of five siblings and had recently married.

“She was so happy,” McGarry said. “I’m honoring Katie 100 percent, but I know that Katie would want something good to come out of it, and that is making a difference in the life of a first responder or military family.”

McGarry, who knew more than 45 people who died in the attacks, previously worked in the World Trade Center and escaped during the 1993 bombing. On Sept. 11, 2001, he was in Montana when he learned of the attacks.

The idea for the ride took shape during the COVID-19 pandemic, when McGarry began cycling regularly and found the activity therapeutic.

“When I say, ‘never forget,’ it’s not just the horror — it’s the unity and the love that came out of that,” he said.

McGarry will ride with a small group organized by Cycle of Life Adventures, supported by a follow vehicle and scheduled rest days. Despite the logistical support, he acknowledged the journey will be physically and emotionally demanding.

“I want to focus on the goodness and the love because that’s all my sister would have wanted,” he said.