http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20110530_02

Mihindu Seth Medura declared open for War Heroes
www.defence.lk">H.E President and C-in-C Mahinda Rajapaksa Monday (May 30) declared open the 'Mihindu Seth Medura'- a healing home for war heroes at Aththidiya in Dehiwala.
The project is the brainchild of the Secretary Defence Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa- which has made history as the first such facility to be built in South Asia. "It is our priority to look into the needs of those who have given everything for the country and in return never expected any. What we do as welfare projects may seem to be technically termed as CSR in the corporate world, but this work undertaken by the Ministry of Defence and the Security Forces is much more than an extension of responsibility. It is a sacred duty by the nation," says its initiator, who was himself a veteran battle commander.
The 46-acre project built in the green suburb of Colombo, preserving the natural environment lies in the borders of the Aththidiya Bird Sanctuary. According to Major Kaushal Weerasinghe- construction coordinator of the 'Mihindu Seth Medura' the project's initial work was completed at a cost of Rs. 135Mn.
Secretary Defence Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa sees the need to engage Sri Lankan philanthropists, both locally and abroad, in this venture that will help weave the Sri Lankan social fabric with a rich commitment to serve those who have given selfless service to their country.
"The concept is unique. This is to assist in every endeavor for disable war heroes, who requires maximum attention to reinstate themselves to normalcy with their family and friends", said Major DMDJ Dissanayake -medical officer in-charge of the patients.
Cabinet Ministers, the Chief of Defence Staff including three forces Commanders, Inspector General of Police, Senior Defence Ministerial officials and relatives of disabled war heroes were also present at the occasion.