In September 1943, Rusty was posted to Sutton Bridge in Lincolnshire for a four-week course at the Central Gunnery School. At the end of the course he was assessed “average to below average” on drogues; “good average” as a marksman in fighter combat, “good average” in bomber combat and “good average” as an instructor. On return to operations, he was appointed Squadron Gunnery Officer.