so if we have 5 people that really know him well and would write a great recommendation its ok go over the "3" stated in the MOC instructions?
From our experience, it’s not okay to exceed the required amount. If it states two to three letters, then submit three. My DS was given very specific instructions to follow all rules—exactly, which he did. Also, between the three MOCs, he submitted ten letters from a variety of sources, carefully thought out so the letters/writers in each batch were balanced with content. For example, for one MOC, he chose: a coach, AP Phys teacher, school counselor, and another teacher. In another he chose: a community service advisor, Scout Advisor, and a teacher. Each batch had a balanced blend of variety of information so all sources weren’t communicating the same information. Throughout this process, DS gained knowledge that if instructions weren’t followed perfectly, it could negatively impact the chances of the nomination.
Best wishes.