For some strange reason a recent thread answered with Honkytonk Hero by Joe J put me in mind of a totally different story...
The main character is apparently an idler living off his wife's hard work running a diner. He does odd jobs on rental properties, but only minimal visible income. Weekends and weeks away with the military he admits to standing around telling others what to do so neighbours think he may be a sargeant.
He actually owns the rental properties; is an officer in the national guard. Becomes known when he's appointed as CO of the state's national guard.