Memorandum
Date: April 28, 2026
To: The Honorable Lake County Board of Supervisors
From: Board of Supervisors
Subject: Presentation of Proclamation Honoring the Life and Service of Marla Ruzicka
Executive Summary:
HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MARLA RUZICKA
WHEREAS, Marla Ruzicka, a devoted, young, Lake County native and compassionate humanitarian, volunteered her time and energy at the age of 16 while still attending Clear Lake High School to join “Global Exchange.” Upon graduation from Long Island University, she founded the Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC), traveling courageously to Iraq and Afghanistan to bear witness to the suffering of innocent civilians and to document the human cost of war; and
WHEREAS, through her tireless efforts creating a team to count civilian casualties, to meet with grieving families, and to amplify the voices of those most impacted by war, Marla became a powerful advocate for truth, compassion, and accountability across international boundaries; and
WHEREAS, Marla passionately lobbied before the United States Congress to establish and secure a multimillion-dollar fund for reparation to those who were injured, and to civilian families who lost loved ones in the conflict, ensuring that justice and humanity would not be forgotten amid the turmoil of war; and
WHEREAS, her service has reflected the highest ideals of civic duty, global citizenship, and moral leadership - the qualities that inspire others to act with courage and compassion in the face of adversity; today CIVIC, 23 years after its founding, operates in war zones around the world with some 120 employees and engages with our U.S. military, the United Nations, and foreign nations; and
WHEREAS, we remember that Marla tragically sustained fatal injuries in a car bomb explosion while traveling along the Airport Road in Baghdad with her CIVIC colleague and friend Faiz Ali Salim, giving her life in service to others and to her unwavering mission of aiding civilians in war zones; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors joins the community, her family, friends, and colleagues in mourning her loss, celebrating her legacy, and honoring the light she brought through her work.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Lake County Board of Supervisors on this day of remembrance of the 21st anniversary of her funeral in Lakeport attended by 1,000 people from around the world including friends, neighbors, government representatives, and all major news networks, hereby honors Marla Ruzicka for her extraordinary humanitarian service and the profound impact of her life’s work carried on by CIVIC. The Board urges all citizens to reflect upon Marla’s example of compassion, courage, and global solidarity, and to carry forward her spirit of kindness and advocacy during these difficult times.
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Recommended Action: Presentation of Proclamation Honoring the Life and Service of Marla Ruzicka