• English / United States: Lt. Surge
• Japanese / Japan: マチス
• Japanese (Romanized) / Japan: Matis
• Japanese (TL) / Japan: Matis
• French / France: Major Bob
• Chinese (Mandarin Taiwan) / Taiwan: 麥奇
• Czech / Czechia: Poručík Surge
• Norwegian / Norway: Løytnant Surge
• Korean / South Korea: 마티스
• Chinese (Cantonese Hong Kong) / Hong Kong: 麥奇
• Russian / Russia: Лейтенант Серж

Lieutenant Surge is a prominent figure in Vermilion City as he is a seasoned military officer and a renowned Pokémon Gym Leader that specializes in Electric-type Pokémon. He is known for his gruff exterior and unwavering determination, but it is clear that his military background contributes to his formidable presence. Those that defeat him in a Gym Battle are awarded the Thunder Badge.

Surge seems to have joined the military at a young age and was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Surge is deeply dedicated to his Pokémon and the military, but he is always willing to train and battle others. His love for Electric-type Pokémon quickly became apparent, and he dedicated himself to training with them. He is known as the "Lightning Lieutenant".

Anime:

Lieutenant Surge made a dramatic entrance in the original series episode Electric Shock Showdown where he showcased his Raichu. Lt. Surge's attitude towards Pokémon is to evolve them as soon as possible so they are as strong as possible.

With a condescending smirk, Surge mocked Ash's Pikachu, dismissing it as a weak. Despite Pikachu's small stature, Ash Ketchum accepted the challenge. However, Lt. Surge's Raichu overwhelmingly stronger Electric attacks quickly overwhelmed Pikachu and he lost the match.

After a brief recovery at the Pokémon Center, Ash returned to the gym for a rematch. This time, Pikachu used its speed and agility to evade Raichu's attacks. In a desperate attempt to gain the upper hand, Lt. Surge had Raichu unleash a powerful Thunderbolt, shattering the gym's windows and plunging it into darkness.

Surprisingly, Pikachu remained unharmed, having grounded itself with its tail to absorb the electricity. Lt. Surge's Raichu on the other hand, was exhausted from using such a powerful attack. Seizing the opportunity, Pikachu delivered a decisive blow, defeating Raichu and earning Ash the coveted Thunder Badge.