The trials of a military spouse

My husband and I are currently stationed near the mexico border (he’s military.) He recently got deployed to the “fields” for training exercises.

I was permitted to drop a care package for the troops yesterday (a huge cooler packed with cold drinks and snacks) because the days are well over 100 degrees here and they have no ac.

Anyways, as i was leaving my husband and I said our goodbyes since he wont be home for a couple of weeks.. he told me NOT to text him telling him that I miss him. He described it as “negative” and didn’t say anything further.

While I didn’t question him on it, I was hoping one of you might have a fresh point of view. I somewhat understand why he might view it as negative. But then again, I want him to know that his family misses him.

Any ideas on alternative ways to say “i miss you?”