Cover Girl, whose real name is Courtney A. Krieger, debuted as an action figure in the 1983 G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero toy line, released exclusively with the Wolverine armored missile vehicle. She made her first comic book appearance in Marvel's G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero issue #16 (October 1983). Originating from Peoria, Illinois, Cover Girl is portrayed as a former high-fashion model who achieved success in Chicago and New York but grew dissatisfied with the industry's superficiality, prompting her to enlist in the Army for a more meaningful pursuit.

As a specialist in armor with a secondary focus on armored fighting vehicle mechanics, Cover Girl serves as the primary driver of the Wolverine tank and demonstrates expertise in diesel and gas turbine technology, as well as various anti-tank weapons. Her character is defined by a strong resolve to transcend stereotypes tied to her striking appearance, compelling her to excel in technical and combat disciplines traditionally seen as unfeminine. This determination allows her to contribute effectively to the G.I. Joe team, often enduring sexist attitudes while maintaining professionalism and skill.

Cover Girl features in numerous missions across the Marvel comics, including defending G.I. Joe headquarters, conducting surveillance in Europe, participating in raids against Cobra operations, and undertaking undercover assignments. In the Sunbow animated series, voiced by Libby Aubrey, she appears with varying designs and supports key episodes through leadership and tactical roles. Subsequent continuities, including Devil's Due publications where she develops a relationship with Shipwreck, and the 2009 live-action film G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra—portrayed by Karolína Kurková as General Hawk's aide—further highlight her versatility, though with varying outcomes, reinforcing her legacy as a capable and evolving operative.