JAKARTA, Indonesia - Secretary of State Colin Powell said today that the United States may be able to do more to help identify remains of tsunami victims and pledged U.S. support for a regional warning system in hopes of preventing such massive loss of life from future tsunamis.

Getting his first up-close look at heavy damage from last week's undersea earthquake and tsunami, Powell visited the Phuket resort area that is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand for European and American beachgoers.

Powell and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush saw scores of photographs and posters posted outside the town hall seeking information on missing tourists.

Powell's airplane flew slow and low, giving him a close view of flattened houses and ruined beaches.

Powell toured an office where American forensic experts are helping Thai officials identify thousands of bodies that washed ashore and said afterward he will recommend expanding U.S. forensic assistance.

Thai officials told Powell the thing they most want is U.S. help for a warning system in the Indian Ocean and China Sea and Powell pledged U.S. technical help for some kind of a regional warning system.

"We'll do everything we can to contribute," he said.

Discussing U.S. aid in general, Powell said, "The United States has made a significant financial contribution, but we have done much more than that." He cited millions of dollars being raised in private donations in the United States even before President Bush announced Monday in Washington that his father, the first President Bush, and former President Clinton, will spearhead a fund-raising drive.

Powell also noted the massive U.S. military assistance now swinging into high gear that is delivering food, water and supplies and evacuating wounded.

In an interview on ABC's "Good Morning America," he urged patience, saying that getting aid and supplies to the victims "is not a simple matter."

"Everybody thinks you can just magically move aircraft, helicopters and aircraft carriers across an ocean in a day. ... It's not just money. It's getting food, water, medical supplies in place. It takes time to generate such an effort."