Riza Hawkeye is a First Lieutenant in the Amestrian State Military and serves as the personal aide, bodyguard, and most trusted subordinate of Colonel Roy Mustang. She is a highly disciplined and capable soldier, known for her exceptional skill with firearms, especially sniper rifles, and her calm, collected demeanor under pressure. Her background is deeply intertwined with Mustang's: she is the daughter of Berthold Hawkeye, the alchemist who taught Mustang the secrets of flame alchemy. Upon her father's death, she entrusted Mustang with the knowledge of this alchemy, which was inscribed in a tattoo on her back, sealing their fates together.

In Fullmetal Alchemist the Movie: Conqueror of Shamballa, which takes place two years after the conclusion of the original 2003 anime series, Hawkeye remains in Amestris while Edward Elric is stranded in an alternate version of Earth, specifically 1920s Germany. Her role in the film is that of a steadfast and watchful guardian. She continues her duties at Mustang's side, offering logistical support and strategic counsel. With Edward gone, she becomes a quiet but reliable pillar of support for Alphonse Elric, subtly watching over his well-being as he tirelessly searches for a way to reunite with his brother. She provides composed advice and ensures his safety amid the shifting political landscape of post-Promised Day Amestris.

Hawkeye's personality is defined by her professionalism and internal conflict. She presents a serious, courteous, and highly rational exterior, seen by her peers as the model of a perfect soldier. However, beneath this disciplined surface lies a gentle soul burdened by a heavy sense of guilt from her participation in the Ishval Civil War. This experience destroyed her youthful idealism and instilled in her a core motivation: to atone for her past by supporting Mustang in his goal to reform the military and create a better future, even if it means sacrificing her own happiness and continuing to dirty her hands as a soldier. She is not prone to public displays of emotion, preferring to communicate her deep loyalty and affection through subtle actions and quiet support.

Her most significant relationship is with Roy Mustang. Their connection is one of profound trust and unspoken devotion. Mustang has entrusted her with his life and his conscience, giving her the express authority to kill him if he ever strayed from the path of justice. In Conqueror of Shamballa, this bond is tested by circumstance, as Mustang is in a state of exile and political vulnerability after the Promised Day. Hawkeye remains fiercely loyal, vigilantly awaiting his return to Central and ready to protect his ambitions. She also maintains a professional but caring rapport with the Elric brothers. Her protective nature extends to Alphonse in particular during Edward's absence, honoring her commitment to their safety. Another key bond is with her Shiba Inu, Black Hayate, whom she raises with both stern discipline and genuine affection, reflecting her approach to all her close relationships.

In terms of development, Hawkeye has evolved from a shy, idealistic young woman into a stoic, battle-hardened soldier. She has learned to accept responsibility for her actions rather than placing blame on others, and she channels her trauma into a resolute will to effect change. Throughout the film, she embodies the role of the loyal soldier and moral compass, her quiet strength providing a crucial foundation for the characters fighting to protect their world. Her notable abilities extend beyond her legendary marksmanship to include her tactical acumen, her unshakable discipline, and her ability to remain the calm voice of reason in even the most chaotic situations.