Col. Steve Duke will be the guest Mother Ginger on Dec. 12 for the 48th annual production of Ballet Austin's "The Nutcracker," the longest running production of the ballet in Texas.

Duke, director, Maneuver Test Directorate, U.S. Army Operational Test Command, carries on a military tradition that began in 2004 with Beth Chiarelli, the wife of Gen. Pete Chiarelli, then-commander of the 1st Cavalry Division, as the first Fort Hood Mother Ginger.

Other Fort Hood celebrity Mother Gingers include Brig. Gen. Don MacWillie, who leads the command; former commanders Brig. Gen. Chris Tucker and Col. Curtis Potts; and Command Sgt. Maj. Larry Wilson, former senior noncommissioned officer.

"I'm looking forward to joining a long line of distinguished Fort Hood alumni," Duke said.

"It's a great way to get into the Christmas spirit, and it's an honor to be asked to take part in a wonderful holiday tradition."

Duke will take the stage at the 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, Dec. 12, at the Long Center for the Performing Arts (Michael and Susan Dell Hall), located next to Palmer Auditorium at the intersection of Barton Springs Road and First Street.

Tickets are available by calling the box office at (512) 476-2163 or going online at www.balletaustin.org.

Other Texas celebrities who have appeared as the guest Mother Ginger include Lance Armstrong, Robert Rodriguez, Gov. Ann Richards, Luci Baines Johnson, Molly Ivins, Hollywood Henderson, Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison and Michael Dell.

"We are pleased to be able to honor our service members who so gallantly and selflessly defend and protect America," said Cookie Ruiz, Ballet Austin executive director.

"We're looking forward to Colonel Duke joining us for this year's production."