For truth. The lower level GS workers are pretty much doing as they're told, though I suspect some pursue certain policies with more zeal than others. Thinking now of the IRS and EPA in particular.
I do think the mid-to-upper level bureaucracy is in CYA mode 24/7. But it's the the way some department heads and as you said the Congressionally-approved appointees behave that really can make one sick. Didn't pay your taxes for five years? No problem... CONFIRMED! Won't produce your internal correspondence because 'your hard drive crashed, and you had it shreaded'... OK, no worries. Won't hand over your emails from your time as Secretary of State? Oh, sure I get it. We can wait the 75 years to get them.
Oh, and thanks. That's one giant shot for a man, one small shot for mankind.