‘SOPRANO” James Gandolfini left nothing to chance on Sunday’s Emmy Awards.

First, Gandolfini scribbled notes on the back of his hand when he presented an award (see photo). Then he tried to thank U.S. troops for recognizing Tony Soprano before being cut off.

Soldiers from the First Platoon, Alpha Company, stationed in Normandy, France, have named their Bradley fighting vehicle “Stugotz” – which is the name of Tony’s beloved boat on “The Sopranos.”

The troops even sent Gandolfini a picture of them posing with the “Stugotz,” which he and his castmates autographed, according to HBO insiders.

But Gandolfini never got the chance to thank the troops. He was on stage, holding a piece of paper, while series creator David Chase accepted the show’s Best Drama Emmy.

As Chase wrapped his speech, Gandolfini leaned into the microphone and glanced down at the paper – but was cut off by host Garry Shandling.

“Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait!” Gandolfini yelled before realizing he was out of time.