Erwin Smith

Erwin Smith is the 13th Commander of the Survey Corps.

Erwin Smith stands at 6'2" with a muscular build, fitting for a seasoned soldier. His most distinctive features are his thick blonde eyebrows and piercing blue eyes, which gaze at the world with a calculating sharpness. His blonde hair is neatly parted to the side.

Erwin is serious, calculating, and always planning far in the future. Erwin is a very grim individual. He accepted all news, good or bad, mockery or praise, with the same stoic attitude. His ultimate goal is for humanity to once again rise up and become the dominant species over the Titans, and to prove his father's theories about the outside world correct, a goal he is willing to sacrifice anything for. His clever strategies have led the Survey Corps to many victories against the Titans. Erwin is extremely driven and determined in pursuing his goals. He maintains his composure in even the direst of situations, assessing events objectively and logically. His subordinates find his unshakable resolve and confidence reassuring. However, Erwin is not without doubts and regrets, especially regarding the immense sacrifices he has had to make for victory. He bears the weight of these difficult decisions privately, questioning whether he's done the right thing.

Erwin Smith possesses exceptional skills in strategy, planning, and tactical analysis. Years of leading the Survey Corps against Titans have honed his ability to make quick decisions in dire situations that minimize loss of life. He is highly intelligent and adept at calculating probabilities and predicting enemy movements. Erwin can formulate complex strategies that make the best use of available resources and adapt to changes on the battlefield. Though he lacks combat experience compared to his subordinates, Erwin is still proficient with using 3D Maneuver Gear and blades. He can hold his own against average Titans but typically directs his forces from the rear guard.

As a child, Erwin was a curious and insightful individual who did not accept facts at face value. He asked why humanity had no memory of what happened before they lived within the Walls, because even if they had lost all their records, the first generation should have been able to teach their children. His father shared a theory with him that the king had altered humanity's memories when they first entered the Walls so he could control them better. Too innocent to realize why his father would not discuss this in the classroom, Erwin shared it with the other kids in town, which resulted in his father's "accidental" death, arranged by the Military Police Brigade's First Interior Squad. This tragic event strengthened Erwin's resolve to uncover the truth that the government was hiding from its citizens. He enlisted in the military and rose quickly through the ranks, joining the Survey Corps under Commander Keith Shadis. Erwin proved himself as an invaluable strategist and was soon promoted to lead the Corps after Shadis stepped down. As Commander, Erwin spearheaded several expeditions beyond the walls that expanded human territory. However, many ended in disaster with over 50% casualty rates. Despite heavy losses, Erwin never gives up hope. His unwavering dedication inspired soldiers like Captain Levi and Squad Leader Hange to join the Corps. With their support, Erwin continues fighting for a future where humanity could explore the outside world without fear of Titans.