Description Brown leather Spalding brand baseball glove belonging to Gregory Stajk. The glove is well worn.
Historical Notes Kings Park, Long Island, native Gregory Stajk lived in Long Beach. As a young adult, he pursued two passions—he tried out for major league baseball and earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts. Choosing a career in firefighting, he served with Ladder Company 13. On September 11, Firefighter Stajk and his cousin Firefighter Martin McWilliams both perished at the towers. Firefighter Stajk was 46 years old.
Curator's Comment Gregory Stajk played baseball throughout his life. He began pitching at age seven and emerged as a star on the team at Kings Park High School on Long Island. As a senior, the lefty pitched a perfect game that included 12 strikeouts. His teammates signed the game ball for him afterward. Gregory’s skill earned him tryouts with several major league teams. Ultimately, he chose a career in firefighting, joining the FDNY in the 1980s. He continued to play baseball for the Fire Department’s team. HIDE