Authorities have said that Canada honored the passing of its last World War I veteran with a ceremony Friday marking the official end of an era.

The Canadian Broadcasting Corp. reported that John Babcock, who died in February at 109, was paid tribute at the National End of Era ceremony on Vimy Ridge Day at Ottawa's National War Memorial.

It was further reported that Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Governor General Michaelle Jean opened the 11 a. m. event with a ceremonial inspection followed by Jean shaking hands and personally thanking rows of veterans from other wars for their service.

The CBC also reported that similar ceremonies were held across Canada, in London and in France at the Canadian National Vimy Memorial where 93 years ago Canadians won a battle helping to establish Canada's national identity.

A statement was issued by Britain's Queen Elizabeth recognizing the importance of the ceremonial events to pay homage "to the passing of a truly remarkable generation."

It was reported that she called the sacrifice of the 650,000 Canadians who served and 200,000 killed or wounded in World War I a "defining moment in the history of Canada ... which we will never forget." (With Inputs from Agencies)