German 77 MM Artillery Shell with Branches, Berries, and Acorns

A shield-shaped section of the brass shell has been hatched to reveal two embossed and engraved branches.  One branch has oak leaves and acorns, while the other has unidentified leaves and berries.  “1914” is inscribed on the top of the shield, with “CH. – Thierry” in the middle and “1918” at the bottom.   The Battle of Chateau-Thierry was fought on July 18, 1918, and was one of the first actions of the American Expeditionary Forces, the newest troops on the front, under General John J Pershing.  The United States and the French managed to surprise the Germans when troops went “Over the Top.”