Within 18 months, on October 15, 1976, ADM Owen W. Siler released ALDIST 257, reducing the time-in-grade requirement for promotion to W-4 from five years to four years.

By 1974, Association membership had grown to 2,914. The following year, membership surpassed the 3,000 mark—a significant milestone reflecting both the strength of the warrant corps and the continued relevance of the Association

The early 1970s brought continued growth for the Association, with membership expanding to more than 2,600 members. Two new District Clubs were established during this period: the Columbia River Club in Astoria, Oregon, and the Oklahoma City Club in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

In January 1969, the Association celebrated 40 years of service to the Coast Guard warrant officer corps.

March 1967 marked a significant turning point in the warrant officer promotion system. Following formal requests from the Association and the results of a Coast Guard study, the Commandant approved several major changes:

One of the most significant institutional changes of the late 1960s was the Coast Guard’s transfer to a newly created federal department. After more than 177 years under the Department of the Treasury, the Coast Guard entered a new era under different departmental oversight.

Throughout the 1960s, each of the armed services periodically adjusted the size of its warrant officer corps. During the early part of the decade, the Marine Corps nearly eliminated its warrant ranks and at one point had fewer than 2,000 warrant officers on active duty.

While the Association continued its advocacy to correct pay inequities, it also undertook important internal reforms. Efforts were made to amend the By-Laws to allow members who had accepted temporary commissions—and who had previously been members—to retain their Association membership. Inactive Reserve warrant officers were also made eligible for membership.

By 1958, Association membership had grown to 1,444, with nearly one-third comprised of retirees. By 1961, membership increased further to 1,679.

In 1956, the New Orleans Club was organized and held its first meeting, featuring the local district commander, RADM J. A. Kerrins, as guest speaker. Across the country, Club meetings served as important gathering points for warrant officers. These events were typically structured as social dinners and often included prominent civic leaders, military officials, and public figures.