Surge shares many similarities to the Street Fighter character Guile due to the fact that they are both muscular blonde Americans (or American equivalents) who were part of the military. VII, he was also referred to as the "Lightning American." This was likely changed to avoid raising questions about the Pokémon world's relationship to the real world.
Surge seems to be proof that the Pokémon series started out in a setting similar to the real world. Surge's Pokémon are slightly higher leveled in Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver than in the Generation II games. There is also a rumor that he was a pilot, while in America, who used Electric-type Pokémon to power his plane. It is said he was Gentleman Tucker's commanding officer in the army during an unspecified war, where his life was saved by Electric-type Pokémon. Surge being in the military in the video games (possibly the American army or Air Force). It made me change my mind about you!" Pokémon Red, Green, and Blue
I didn’t know that there were gutsy trainers like you. He used the electricity generated by Pokémon to power his plane." Surge is rumored to have been a pilot while home in America. Surge installed the traps in the Gym himself. Surge was always famous for his cautious nature in the Army." "I tell you, kid, electric Pokémon saved me during the war!" Surge's VS Sprite in Let's Go Pikachu & Eevee Fame Checker Again, he appeared in the Red and Blue remakes, Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen, with an updated appearance. He would later be in Pokémon Gold and Silver in the same position. Surge first appeared in the original Pokémon games, as the Vermilion City Gym Leader. It may also involve "Clematis", a genus of flowers, following the plant-based naming of most Gym Leaders. His Japanese name, Machisu, may originate from "machine" or "march" (as he was military personnel). It may also be a play on "sarge", a shortened informal term for the title "sergeant". Surge originates from "lieutenant" (shortened to form Lt.) and "surge" (referring to surging electricity). He appreciates challengers who are persistent. Surge's build is that of a large, muscular man, having tall stature and a very muscular body. He keeps his black boots, and also now wears a dog tag. Surge now wears a sleeveless green shirt and camouflage pants. In Red and Blue, he wears a military jacket and black boots. Surge resembles an adult with spiked blond hair and light skin. 7.6 Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!.