The Survey Corps was the branch of the Military most actively involved in direct Titan combat, Titan study, human expansion, and outside exploration. They had the best soldiers who are the most skilled in using vertical maneuvering equipment. Despite having little success, they still symbolized the "hope of mankind" with their insignia being known as the "Wings of Freedom." They hoped that someday, their efforts will change the world and they will be able to recover what has been taken away from humanity.
After the truth about the Titans is revealed, the Survey Corps turned its attention to fighting Marley and the outside world. After the Battle of Heaven and Earth had ended, the Survey Corps were then merged together with the other military branches under the control of the Yeagerists into one unified army branch.