The biggest characteristic of Team Leader Garrett Basilier is that he's primarily driven by fear. Unlike other soldiers who joined up to avenge lost loved ones, or in compassion for humanity, or anger at their enslavement, Garrett joined in hopes to free humanity so that he can see the outside world, aiming for the Survey Corps. At the last minute, however, he changed his mind to join the Stationary Guard, his fear and cowardice getting the better of him. He has regretted the decision ever since.

Not that this has stopped him from being competent; since then he's survived because his fear of death keeps him alive. He's taken note of his selfish motivation and reasons, and is openly ashamed for it, but he isn't about to stop fighting now. Although his fear causes him problems, like not being particularly communicative during battles, it makes him unpredictable for Titans to kill.

He has a love for machinery and treats the cannons atop the wall with care. Because of his competency, intelligence, aptitude for strategy and sense of camaraderie, he makes a great leader. He just doesn't make a very good team fighter.