Two passengers that were stranded in Gambo during 9/11 are giving back to the community that welcomed them with open arms.

Marvin and Allison Brustin were two of many “plane people” who found themselves stranded in Newfoundland during the 9/11 crisis. The two found solace in the Salvation Army in Gambo.

It’s been 18 years since the tragic event but the Brustins haven’t forgotten the compassion that was shown to the visitors on that fateful day.

On September 11 this year during a memorial service at Smallwood Academy, the Brustins returned the favour with three $3,000 scholarships for the class of 2019.

In addition to the scholarships, the Brustins will be sponsoring a monument to be placed in front of the town hall, to symbolize the friendship between Canada and the United States during 9/11 as well as the past, present and future of both nations.

While speaking at the 9/11 memorial service, Marvin recalled his memories fondly, quoting that “even though my bed was on the floor of the Salvation Army, with five meals a day and surrounded by the kindest people, it’s the best hotel I’ve ever stayed in.”