At Reed Brothers Dodge, our legacy is built not just on the cars we sell or the buildings we’ve called home, but on the dedicated people who have shaped our history for over a century. Today, I am proud to introduce you to one of the dealership’s most respected and long-serving employees: Phil Vetter.

Phil Vetter was an integral part of the Service Department at Reed Brothers Dodge for more than 3 decades, serving well into the late 1970s.

Phil Vetter’s journey with Reed Brothers Dodge began in the early 20th century, a time when Rockville, Maryland was still a small town and the automobile industry was just finding its wheels. From his earliest days, Phil stood out for his unwavering commitment to customer service. By 1951, he had already become an integral part of our management team, working alongside founders Edgar and Lewis Reed as well as other key figures like Lester Wilson and Leo C. Murray.

Phil’s expertise quickly earned him the role of Service Manager, where he oversaw a busy department of factory-trained mechanics. One of Phil’s most memorable moments came in 1972 at the Washington Auto Show. There, he represented Reed Brothers behind the wheel of a custom-equipped Dodge Charger “Topper Special,” showcasing not only Chrysler’s latest technology but also our dealership’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve. Whether managing day-to-day operations or representing the dealership at high-profile events, Phil was always a trusted ambassador for Reed Brothers’ values.

Phil’s career spanned some of the most transformative years in both local history and automotive culture. He witnessed, and helped navigate, the dealership’s move from its original location at the triangle through several major remodels, and finally into it new location at 15955 Frederick Road in 1970. Throughout these changes, Phil ensured that our service department remained at the cutting edge while never losing sight of what mattered most: people.

Breaking Ground for the New Location, 1970. From left: Edwin Becraft, Phil Vetter, George Ward, Lee Gartner, President (others unknown).

Phil Vetter wasn’t just an employee, he was family. We are proud to honor his legacy, not only as an exceptional Service Manager, but as a lasting pillar of the Reed Brothers family and the community it served.