Description Kings Park High School baseball uniform pants belonging to Gregory Stajk. The pants are white with a red, white, and black stripe down the side of the pant legs.
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 this game ball for him afterwards. 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