Background
The pilot in command (PIC) and his future son-in-law arrived at the airport with the intention of flying an aircraft. The future son-in-law, an Army captain, was scheduled to depart for an overseas assignment shortly. The PIC did not hold an instrument rating.
Weather Conditions
The weather at the airport featured low ceilings and reduced visibility due to fog. At the closest airport with reported weather, located 15 miles to the southeast, the ceilings were described as ragged and the temperature-dew point spread was 1 degree apart. Despite these conditions, the pilot did not obtain a formal weather briefing before departure.
Departure
Other pilots present at the airport expressed surprise when the PIC initiated takeoff. They observed that he reduced power almost immediately after lifting off.
Discovery
The aircraft was subsequently found in a field approximately 3 miles northeast of the airport. The location corresponded to the approximate area for a downwind leg to runway 21 at Weltzien Skypark.