No need to apologize!
Yes, given your circumstances, you should use a VPN so that you're able to use the site. While we have a rule that prohibits it, we do make exceptions based on stuff like this.
Here are some award icons that i'm using right now on my forum.
The preview images is from my "Skin" but it's almost the same on any theme.
Hope you like them, enjoy!
[color=rgb(40,40,40)][font=helvetica][size=3]Custom made forum badges you can use on your site.[/size][/font][/color]
[color=rgb(40,40,40)][font=helvetica][size=3] [/size][/font][/color]
[color=rgb(40,40,40)][font=helvetica][size=3]Comes with:[/size][/font][/color]
[color=rgb(40,40,40)][font=helvetica][size=3] [/size][/font][/color][list]
[*]Pre-made rank badges
[*]Customizable Badge PSD
[*]Badge color changer
[/list]