Video: Students Bid New Hampshire Gov. John Lynch A Fond Goodbye

Gov. John Lynch read a Dr. Suess book at a Read Across America event at the Broken Ground Elementary School in Concord on March 8.

While the students enjoyed the book and talking with the governor, they had a special surprise for him: A rendition of a Gary Lewis & the Playboys song, "This Diamond Ring," with altered lyrics, acknowledging his tenure in office. The band was one of the governor’s favorites and he bought all their records.

Lynch was visibly moved by the gesture and admitted holding back tears.

When asked if it were such moments that made him wonder if he made the right decision to not run again, the governor thought for a moment and said, “No … it’s just … I’m really overwhelmed by them coming together and thanking me for what I’ve done. It was a very special moment, as governor and I’ll always remember it. And the fact that they knew (the song) … It was so nice. Things like that are what make the job worthwhile and meaningful to me.”