Meaning: This quote by Bob Schieffer, a renowned journalist, addresses the complex and often delicate relationship between reporters and military commanders in the context of reporting on war and conflict. It highlights the potential challenges and conflicts that can arise when journalists believe their ability to report a legitimate story is being hindered by the decisions of military commanders. The quote suggests that when faced with such constraints, reporters may need to appeal to the commander's superior in order to address the issue and ensure that their right to report is not inhibited.

In the field of journalism, particularly in conflict zones and war-torn areas, the relationship between reporters and military authorities is crucial. The role of journalists in such environments is to provide accurate and unbiased coverage of events, often at great personal risk. At the same time, military commanders have the responsibility to ensure operational security and the safety of their personnel. This dynamic can lead to potential conflicts of interest and differing perspectives on what information should be made available to the public.

Schieffer's quote reflects the recognition that there may be instances where a reporter feels that their ability to fulfill their journalistic duty is being compromised by the decisions of a military commander. This could manifest in various ways, such as restricted access to certain areas, limitations on interviews with personnel, or censorship of information deemed sensitive by the military. In such cases, the quote suggests that the reporter has the right to appeal to the commander's superior in order to address the situation and seek a resolution that allows for the legitimate reporting of the story.

The quote also implies a hierarchical structure within the military, where commanders have superiors to whom they are accountable. By appealing to the commander's boss, the reporter is seeking to escalate the issue to a higher authority who may have the power to intervene and ensure that the reporter's rights are not being unjustly restricted. This process reflects the broader principles of accountability and transparency, as well as the recognition that freedom of the press is a fundamental aspect of a democratic society.

It is important to note that the relationship between journalists and military authorities is often nuanced and multifaceted. While there may be instances where reporters feel their rights are being inhibited, there are also numerous examples of collaboration and cooperation between journalists and the military. Embedded reporting, where journalists are attached to military units, is one such example of this collaboration, allowing reporters to gain firsthand insights into military operations while adhering to certain guidelines and restrictions for the sake of operational security.

In conclusion, Bob Schieffer's quote encapsulates the complexities of the relationship between journalists and military commanders, particularly in the context of reporting from conflict zones. It underscores the importance of the reporter's right to pursue legitimate stories while acknowledging the need for a balanced approach that takes into consideration the requirements of military operations. Ultimately, the quote serves as a reminder of the ongoing dialogue and negotiation that takes place between journalists and the military in the pursuit of accurate and informative reporting.