Everyone approaches patrols in their own way. This is his first year in the CG, so I'm going to assume this is also his 2nd deployment ever in the CG, not just the 2nd since you've been dating???? Each patrol, even for seasoned veterans, can present unique and challenging situations. For a newbie, it will absolutely give him new perspective on things. It isn't easy and I don't think either of you are being neglectful. I think it is just a learning and balancing curve. You will either figure it out and know what to expect from one another or it just won't work out. One of you will want more or less than the other is willing to concede to. It takes time, sometimes years to figure out just where that balance is.
Your best bet... When he gets home, go some place where there is no distraction, not a sports bar, not a buddies house, not the gym... Just somewhere you can sit down and give each other undivided attention. Ask. Say you aren't pressuring him to call you every minute of the day but what is underway like. Why does it seem communication isn't what it is when you are face to face? Let him answer without being made to feel guilty. Then tell him where you are coming from, again without making him feel guilty. Asking us why isn't going to get you any specific answers. Ask him. If someone is worth having, you will work at it to keep each other. this is what you need to do. Good luck... Feel free to throw any questions out and we will be happy to answer. Hopefully there isn't much time left to this patrol.

We've all been there done that on some level.